If you or a loved one has the painful bladder disorder known as interstitial cystitis, it’s likely you’ve also heard or even taken the drug Elmiron (pentosyn polysulfate sodium, or PPS). Although Elmiron has been advertised as an effective treatment for interstitial cystitis with minimal side effects, the manufacturer, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, did not disclose that this drug can also cause vision problems, including blindness in some patients.
New studies have shown that people who take Elmiron for an extended period of time—years in most cases—exhibit an increased risk of vision-related disorders, including maculopathy or retina deterioration. This research has led to a multidistrict litigation (MDL, which is related to but distinct from a class action suit) against Janssen Pharmaceutical, as well as Teva, another drug manufacturer.
Elmiron MDL Updates
Earlier this year, a new Elmiron MDL was established in the U.S. District Court for New Jersey. As of 15 October 2021, nearly 600 pending lawsuits have been filed under this MDL and are pending.
Currently, the presiding judge, Judge Martinotti, is moving these claims through pre-trial discovery. As part of that discovery, Judge Martinotti is planning for what’s called a “science day” where Elmiron lawyers on both sides of the suit can educate the court on their scientific and medical evidence.
While the first round of trials are currently scheduled for early 2023, given the strength of the evidence that links long-term Elmiron usage with pigmentary maculopathy, it’s possible that a global settlement could happen before trial.
What is Maculopathy?
Maculopathy is the clinical term for retina deterioration, which leads to a deterioration or total loss of vision in patients.
New studies have shown that people who take Elmiron, which is the only currently-approved drug for interstitial cystitis, for an extended period of time experience an increased risk of developing maculopathy due to toxicity from the drug. The studies found that out of 140 patients, who each took an average of 5,000 Elmiron pills over 15 years, 22 reported side effects and showed clear signs of drug toxicity and retina deterioration.
Despite the risk, Elmiron has yet to be recalled or taken off the market. Prior to 16 June 2020, Elmiron’s warning label did not even list maculopathy as a possible side effect, leading patients to be unaware of the risk. Even now, urologists and rheumatologists are still allowed to prescribe Elmiron, given they disclose all possible side effects.
Contact Elmiron Solicitors in Dublin
If you wish to receive legal advice under product liability law regarding possible serious side effects of the dangerous drug, Elmiron, contact the expert drug solicitors at Moloney & Co Solicitors. You can also see our other Elmiron facts page for more details about Elmiron cases. Many people have been affected by this dangerous drug, so it’s now classified as a class actions or mass tort case. Fortunately, the expert mass tort solicitors here at Moloney & Co have years of combined experience helping people fight against huge companies like these that produce. Arrange a callback today to speak with an expert!
